Faucet spray head alignment system

ABSTRACT

A faucet includes a faucet body and a faucet spray head being movable from a retracted position adjacent the faucet body, and an extended position away from the faucet body. In the retracted position, the faucet spray head has at least one aligned position with the faucet body. The faucet includes an alignment coupling. The alignment coupling includes first and second alignment elements connected to the faucet body and the faucet spray head, respectively, to align the spray head with the faucet body. The faucet includes a retention coupling that is configured to retain the faucet body and the faucet spray head immediately adjacent one another. The retention coupling includes first and second retention elements connected to the faucet body and the faucet spray head, respectively. The retention coupling is separate from the alignment coupling, and at least one of the first or second retention elements is a magnet.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.16/549,742, filed Aug. 23, 2019; which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/849,570, filed May 17, 2019; and62/722,092, filed Aug. 23, 2019, which applications are herebyincorporated by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND

Fluid dispensing devices, specifically faucets, can be found in manydifferent rooms of a building, including, but not limited to, bathroomsand kitchens. Many typical kitchen faucets utilize pull-downfunctionality that allow the spray head to be detached and undocked fromthe faucet body. This allows the user to manipulate the spray head. Whenthe user is done using the spray head, the spray head often utilizes apullback system (e.g., weights on the water hose) to allow forretraction of the spray head back toward a docked position with thefaucet body.

Faucets are often designed to have an aesthetic look to go with aparticular user style or the style of a particular room/dwelling. Forexample, faucets can have a variety of different finishes, shapes, etc.to allow the user to furnish a particular room to their liking. Somefaucets are designed with an asymmetrical spray head to achieve aparticular stylistic look of the faucet when the spray head is dockedwith the faucet body. However, this creates a problem when re-dockingthe faucet head with the faucet body. If a typical pullback system isutilized, the asymmetrical head can dock with the faucet body in avariety of ways, most of which are positions that are misaligned withthe faucet body. This results in an undesirable look of the faucet anddestroys the aesthetic look the faucet was designed to achieve in thefirst place. Further, regardless of whether the faucet is asymmetricalor symmetrical, a properly docked and retained spray head is desirable.Improvements are needed.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates generally to a fluid dispensing device.In one possible configuration, and by non-limiting example, a pull-downfaucet has retention coupling to retain the faucet body and faucet sprayhead immediately adjacent one another in a docked state.

One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a faucet. The faucetincludes a faucet body and a faucet spray head being movable from aretracted position adjacent the faucet body, and an extended positionaway from the faucet body. In the retracted position, the faucet sprayhead has at least one aligned position with the faucet body. The faucetincludes an alignment coupling. The alignment coupling includes a firstalignment element connected to the faucet body and a second alignmentelement connected to the faucet spray head. The alignment couplingincludes a projection and a tapered groove. At least one of theprojection or the tapered groove is movable with respect to the other,and the tapered groove guides the projection to a narrowed portion ofthe tapered groove to guide the faucet spray head to the at least onealigned position. The faucet includes a retention coupling that isconfigured to retain the faucet body and the faucet spray headimmediately adjacent one another. The retention coupling includes afirst retention element connected to the faucet body and a secondretention element connected to the faucet spray head. The retentioncoupling is separate from the alignment coupling, and at least one ofthe first or second retention elements is a magnet.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a faucet. The faucetincludes a faucet body having an outlet and a hose positioned within thefaucet body and passing through the outlet. The hose is movable withinthe faucet body. The faucet includes a faucet spray head being connectedto the hose and movable between an extended position and a retractedposition. When in the extended position, the spray head is spaced awayfrom the outlet of the faucet body, and, when in the retracted position,the spray head is positioned immediately adjacent the outlet. The faucetincludes an alignment coupling that includes a first alignment elementconnected to the faucet body and a second alignment element connected tothe faucet spray head. The alignment coupling aligns the faucet sprayhead with the faucet body. The faucet includes a retention coupling thatis configured to retain the faucet body and the faucet spray headimmediately adjacent one another. The retention coupling includes afirst retention element connected to the faucet body, adjacent the firstalignment element and a second retention element positioned in thefaucet spray head by, at least partially, the second alignment element.At least one of the first or second retention elements is a magnet.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a faucet. The faucetincludes a faucet body and a faucet spray head being positionable at,and separable from, an outlet of the faucet body. The faucet spray headhas at least one aligned position with the faucet body. The faucetincludes a retention coupling configured to retain the faucet body andthe faucet spray head immediately adjacent one another. The retentioncoupling includes a first retention element connected to the outlet ofthe faucet body. The first retention element includes a securing featureconfigured to aid in reducing relative movement between the firstretention element and the outlet. The retention coupling includes asecond retention element positioned within the faucet spray head by wayof a flange. When the faucet body and the faucet spray head areimmediately adjacent one another, the flange is positioned between thefirst retention element and the second retention element. At least oneof the first or second retention elements is a magnet.

A variety of additional aspects will be set forth in the descriptionthat follows. The aspects can relate to individual features and tocombinations of features. It is to be understood that both the foregoinggeneral description and the following detailed description are exemplaryand explanatory only and are not restrictive of the broad inventiveconcepts upon which the embodiments disclosed herein are based.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following drawings are illustrative of particular embodiments of thepresent disclosure and therefore do not limit the scope of the presentdisclosure. The drawings are not to scale and are intended for use inconjunction with the explanations in the following detailed description.Embodiments of the present disclosure will hereinafter be described inconjunction with the appended drawings, wherein like numerals denotelike elements.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a faucet with a spray head inan aligned position, according to one embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the faucet of FIG. 1 with thespray head in an extended, misaligned position, excluding a water hose.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective schematic view of the faucet of FIG. 1with the spray head in an extended, misaligned position.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective schematic view of the faucet of FIG. 1with the spray head in an extended, misaligned position.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective schematic view of the faucet of FIG. 1with the spray head in the aligned position.

FIG. 6 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the faucet of FIG. 1with the spray head in the aligned position.

FIG. 7 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a faucet body and afirst alignment element of the faucet of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a spray head and a secondalignment element of the faucet of FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective partially exploded view of the sprayhead and the second alignment element of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective partially exploded view of analignment coupling including first and second alignment elements,according to one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of the alignment coupling of FIG.10 in a fully engaged position.

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of the first alignment element ofFIG. 10.

FIG. 13 illustrates another perspective view of the first alignmentelement of FIG. 10.

FIG. 14 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the first alignmentelement of FIG. 10.

FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of the second alignment elementof FIG. 10.

FIG. 16 illustrates a side view of the second alignment element of FIG.10.

FIG. 17 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the second alignmentelement of FIG. 10.

FIG. 18 illustrates a perspective view of a second alignment element,according to one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 19 illustrates a schematic representation of the interfacing ofalignment features of the alignment coupling of FIG. 10.

FIG. 20 illustrates another schematic representation of the interfacingof alignment features of the alignment coupling of FIG. 10.

FIG. 21 illustrates another schematic representation of the interfacingof alignment features of the alignment coupling of FIG. 10 in the fullyengaged position that corresponds with the aligned position of the sprayhead.

FIG. 22 illustrates a perspective exploded view of the spray head of thefaucet of FIG. 1.

FIG. 23 illustrates a perspective view of the second alignment elementof the alignment coupling of FIG. 10 attached to a water hose.

FIG. 24 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the second alignmentelement of FIG. 23.

FIG. 25 illustrates a perspective view of a first alignment element,according to one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 26 illustrates a front view of the first alignment element of FIG.25.

FIG. 27 illustrates a perspective side cross-sectional view of the firstalignment element of FIG. 25.

FIG. 28 illustrates a perspective view of a second alignment element,according to one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 29 illustrates a front view of the second alignment element of FIG.28.

FIG. 30 illustrates a perspective view of a second alignment element, awater hose fitting, and a valve component, according to one example ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 31 illustrates a perspective view of the valve component separatedfrom the second alignment element and the water hose fitting of FIG. 30.

FIG. 32 illustrates another perspective view of the valve component ofFIG. 31.

FIG. 33 illustrates an exploded view of the second alignment element,the water hose fitting, and the valve component of FIG. 30.

FIG. 34 illustrates a side view of the second alignment element and thewater hose fitting of FIG. 30.

FIG. 35 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the second alignmentelement along line 35-35 of FIG. 34.

FIG. 36 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a seal assembly,according to one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 37 illustrates another perspective view of the portion of the sealassembly of FIG. 36.

FIG. 38 illustrates an exploded view of the portion of the seal assemblyof FIG. 36.

FIG. 39 illustrates a schematic perspective view of a seal assembly,according to one example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 40 illustrates a perspective view of a faucet with a spray head inan aligned position, according to one embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 41 illustrates a perspective view of the faucet of FIG. 40 with thespray head in an extended, misaligned position, excluding a water hose.

FIG. 42 illustrates a perspective schematic sectional view of the faucetof FIG. 40 with the spray head in an extended, misaligned position.

FIG. 43 illustrates another perspective schematic sectional view of thefaucet of FIG. 40 with the spray head in an extended, misalignedposition.

FIG. 44 illustrates a perspective schematic sectional view of the faucetof FIG. 40 with the spray head in the aligned position.

FIG. 45 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the faucet of FIG. 40with the spray head in the aligned position.

FIG. 46 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a faucet body of thefaucet of FIG. 40.

FIG. 47 illustrates a perspective view of a spray head and a secondalignment element of the faucet of FIG. 40.

FIG. 48 illustrates a perspective partially exploded view of the sprayhead and the second alignment element of FIG. 47.

FIG. 49 illustrates a perspective view of a first alignment element ofthe faucet of FIG. 40.

FIG. 50 illustrates a perspective view of the second alignment elementand a water hose fitting of the faucet of FIG. 40.

FIG. 51 illustrates another perspective view of the second alignmentelement of the faucet of FIG. 40.

FIG. 52 illustrates a perspective view of the spray head and a sprayhead alignment stop of the faucet of FIG. 40.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to thedrawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts andassemblies throughout the several views. Reference to variousembodiments does not limit the scope of the claims attached hereto.Additionally, any examples set forth in this specification are notintended to be limiting and merely set forth some of the many possibleembodiments for the appended claims.

The present disclosure relates to a faucet that includes an alignmentcoupling and a retention coupling. The alignment coupling ensures that aspray head of the faucet reliably returns to an aligned position and theretention coupling retains the faucet spray head immediately adjacent afaucet body.

The alignment coupling further facilitates reliable complete docking ofthe spray head within the faucet body. The alignment coupling includesalignment elements in the faucet body and adjacent the spray head thatinterface with one another to provide alignment movement. In someexamples, at least one of the alignment elements is positioned at leastpartially around a water hose of the faucet. In another example, thealignment elements include alignment features that include acorresponding projection and a groove (e.g., a v-shaped groove) so thatwhen the groove receives the projection, it guides the projection to anarrowed portion of groove, thereby aligning the spray head with thefaucet body. By facilitating reliable alignment and retraction of thespray head, the alignment coupling preserves the aesthetic of the faucetwhen not in use and further optimizes positioning for particular uses.

The retention coupling further facilitates reliable retention of thespray head adjacent the faucet body. This can be accomplished by use ofat least one magnet and a magnetically attracted material, such assteel. In some examples, the retention coupling includes two attractedcomponents that are configured to not contact one another.

FIG. 1 shows a faucet 100 including a faucet body 102 and a faucet sprayhead 104 that is detachable from a faucet body outlet 106 of the faucetbody 102. As shown in FIG. 1, the spray head 104 is docked with thefaucet body 102. The spray head 104 is movable away from the faucet body102 so as to allow the user the ability to manipulate the spray head 104during use. This is facilitated by a water hose (shown schematically inFIG. 6) having excess length attached to the spray head 104 andpositioned within the faucet body 102.

The faucet 100 is configured to dispense water from a water source outof a spray head outlet 112 of the spray head 104. Further, the faucet100 is configured to be controlled (i.e., on/off, water volume, andwater temperature) via traditional methods (e.g., a handle), and/or viagesture or voice. Although the faucet 100 can be a pull-down kitchenfaucet, this disclosure encompasses other types of faucets, includingbut not limited to, pull-out faucets. Although this disclosure will bediscussed with regard to a kitchen faucet for purposes of example, thesystem described herein could be implemented in any type of pull-downfaucet and/or a pull-out faucet, including a side auxiliary sprayfaucet. In some examples, the faucet 100 is a showerhead in a shower. Insome examples, the faucet 100 is any fluid dispensing device that isconfigured to dispense fluid therefrom.

The faucet body 102 can have a variety of different shapes and sizes toprovide a variety of different appearances having differing aesthetics.As shown, the faucet body 102 includes an arcuate neck 108 between theoutlet 106 and the opposing end of the faucet body 102. The faucet body102 can be mounted in a variety of different locations, such as, but notlimited to, a countertop, a wall, a ceiling, etc. In some examples, thefaucet body 102 is fixed to a location, such as near a kitchen sink.

As noted above, the spray head 104 is detachable so that it can beundocked from the faucet body 102 to allow for maneuverability by theuser to aim the spray head 104. The spray head 104 can include a userinput 110 positioned thereon to allow the user to toggle characteristicsof the water expelled at the spray head outlet 112. In some examples,the operation of the user input 110 can facilitate the toggling of avalve (see FIG. 22) positioned within the spray head 104. The user input110 can toggle characteristics of the expelled water, such as, but notlimited to, volume and/or temperature. In some examples, the user input110 is one of a button, touch sensitive surface, or the like.

An outer profile 103 of the spray head 104 can have a variety ofdifferent shapes and sizes to provide a variety of different aestheticconfigurations of the faucet 100. In some examples, the spray head 104can be configured to have an outer profile 103 that cooperates with anouter profile 105 of the faucet body 102. In some examples, the sprayhead 104 is generally asymmetrical. In other examples, the spray head104 is generally symmetrical.

In the depicted example of FIG. 1, the spray head 104 has an alignedposition when docked with the faucet body 102. The aligned position is aposition that the spray head 104 returns to automatically every time itis docked with the faucet body 102. The aligned position can be avariety of different positions depending on the aesthetics of the faucet100, as well as the particular use of the faucet 100. In the depictedexample, the spray head 104 has an asymmetrical outer profile and has analigned position that aligns the outer profile of the faucet body 102,specifically the neck 108, with the outer profile of the spray head 104.This allows for a consistent outer profile of the faucet 100, includingthe faucet body 102 and the spray head 104. Further, as shown, when inthe aligned position, the user input 110 is positioned facing the faucetbody 102, so as to maintain a clean aesthetic from the front of thefaucet 100. In some examples, when in the aligned position, the userinput 110 is positioned facing the left, right, or away from the faucetbody 102.

In some examples, the spray head 104 can include weights (not shown) toalter the center of the gravity of the spray head 104 in a way to urgethe spray head 104 to the aligned position. In some examples, the weightcan be positioned at a particular side of the spray head 104 so that theweight, by way of gravity, naturally rotates the spray head 104 in a waywhere the weight becomes positioned at an underside of the spray head104 when in the aligned positioned. This can be accomplished by placingthe weight adjacent the spray head outlet 112 and offset of thelongitudinal axis of the spray head 104.

FIGS. 2-5 show the movement of the spray head 104 to the alignedpositioned during docking. Such alignment is facilitated by an alignmentcoupling 114, which includes a first alignment element 116 and a secondalignment element 118. At least one of the first alignment element 116or the second alignment element 118 is movable with respect to theother. In the depicted example, the second alignment element 118 ismovable with respect to the first alignment element 116.

The first and second alignment elements 116, 118 can be positioned at avariety of different locations on the faucet 100. In the illustrativeexample shown, the first alignment element 116 is positioned within thefaucet body 102 and the second alignment element 118 is positionedadjacent the spray head 104. In some examples, the second alignmentelement 118 is attached to the spray head 104. In other examples, thesecond alignment element 118 is positioned around a water hose (notshown) of the faucet 100. In other examples, the second alignmentelement 118 is attached to a water hose of the faucet 100. In someexamples, the first and second alignment elements 116, 118 areintegrally formed in the faucet body 102 and spray head 104. In someexamples, the first and second alignment elements 116, 118 are separateparts from the faucet body 102 and spray head 104.

FIG. 2 shows the spray head 104 detached from the faucet body 102. Whiletypically a water hose (not shown) would be connected to the spray head104 and routed within the outlet 106 of the faucet body 102, the waterhose has been omitted for illustration purposes. The outlet 106 allowsaccess to a pathway 122 disposed at least partially within the faucetbody 102 so that the water hose can be routed to a water source.

FIG. 3 shows the spray head 104 partially docked with the outlet 106 ofthe faucet body 102. For illustration purposes, a cross-sectionalisometric view of the faucet body 102 is shown. The spray head 104 isshown rotated along its longitudinal axis in a direction where the userinput 110 is facing to a side of the faucet 100. In this particularexample, such a position is considered a misaligned position of thespray head 104. The spray head 104 can include a plurality of misalignedpositions. In some examples, every position that the spray head 104 haswhen in contact with the faucet body 102, where the spray head 104 isnot in the aligned position, is considered a misaligned position.

As shown, the first and second alignment elements 116, 118 are showninterfacing with one another to begin an alignment motion caused by theconfiguration of the alignment coupling 114. As the spray head 104 isdrawn closer to the outlet 106, by, for example, a pullback device(e.g., a weight, spring, reel, etc.), the spray head 104 is rotatedautomatically via the alignment coupling 114 toward the alignedposition. As shown in FIG. 4, the spray head 104 is further rotatedcloser to the aligned position thanks to the interfacing of the firstand second alignment elements 116, 118 of the alignment coupling 114.FIG. 5 shows the spray head 104 positioned in the aligned position andfully docked with the faucet body 102.

FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the faucet 100 with the sprayhead 104 in the aligned position. FIG. 6 also shows a water hose 124attached to the spray head 104 and positioned within the pathway 122 ofthe faucet body 102. The water hose 124 can be attached to the sprayhead in a variety of ways, including being attached to the secondalignment element 118. As shown, the first alignment element 116 of thealignment coupling 114 includes a tongue 126 that interfaces with thehose 124 and elevates the hose 124 from a lower interior surface 120 ofthe pathway 122. In some examples, the tongue 126 is configured tocontrol an angle θ of entry of the water hose 124 into the pathway 122with respect to horizontal H. Depending on the orientation andconfiguration of the faucet 100, the angle θ can be altered. In someexamples, the angle θ is between about 30 degrees and 60 degrees withrespect to horizontal H. In some examples, the angle θ is 45 degreeswith respect to horizontal H.

The water hose 124 can be any of a variety of different types including,but not limited to, a nylon-braided hose, a metal braided hose, aflexible hose, a coated hose, etc.

FIG. 7 shows a side view of the first alignment element 116 positionedin the outlet 106 of the faucet body 102. In some examples, the firstalignment element 116 is positioned within a portion of the neck 108 ofthe faucet. In some examples, the first alignment element 116 is fixedwithin the outlet 106 of the faucet body 102. In some examples, thefirst alignment element 116 is fixed to the faucet body 102 by way of afastener, such as, but not limited to, at least one screw, bolt,adhesive, and/or the like. As noted above, the first alignment element116 can be integral with the faucet body 102. In other examples, thefirst alignment element 116 is fixed to the faucet body 102 by way of apress fit. In other examples still, the first alignment element 116 isfixed to the faucet body 102 by way of brazing, welding, or the like.

In some examples, the first alignment element 116 includes a faucet bodyalignment portion 128, a projection 132, and a ring 131. In someexamples, the faucet body alignment portion 128 facilitates properalignment of the first alignment element 116 within the outlet 106 ofthe faucet body 102. The faucet body alignment portion 128 can assist inthe proper assembly of the faucet 100, so that the first alignmentelement 116 is more easily correctly orientated at the outlet 106 tofacilitate the desired alignment of the spray head 104 once the faucet100 is assembled. In some examples, the faucet body alignment portion128 is one of a projection and a recess. The faucet body alignmentportion 128 is engagable with a corresponding projection or recess 130of the faucet body 102.

As shown, the first alignment element 116 also includes an alignmentfeature that includes the projection 132 positioned at a top side 121 ofthe pathway 122 and extending from the top side of the ring 131 of thefirst alignment element 116. As will be described in more detail herein,the projection 132 is configured to interface with the second alignmentelement 118 to move the spray head 104 into the aligned positionedduring docking. In some examples, the projection 132 is at a side of thefirst alignment element 116 opposite the tongue 126.

In the depicted example, the first alignment element 116 also includesthe ring 131 positioned at the outlet 106 of the faucet body 102. Insome examples, the ring 131 is positioned within the faucet body 102 toencircle the pathway 122. In some examples, the projection 132 extendsradially directly inward from the ring 131 and the tongue 126 extendsaxially therefrom. In some examples, the ring 131 also includes thefaucet body alignment portion 128.

FIG. 8 shows the second alignment element 118 mounted to the spray head104. FIG. 9 shows the second alignment element 118 spaced away from aninternal cavity 134 of the spray head 104. In some examples, the secondalignment element 118 is fixed to the spray head 104 to prevent relativemovement therebetween. In some examples, the second alignment element118 is mounted adjacent to the spray head 104. In some examples, thesecond alignment element 118 is positioned around the end of the waterhose 124, as shown in FIG. 6. In some examples, the second alignmentelement 118 is mounted to the hose 124.

The second alignment element 118 includes an alignment feature thatincludes groove 136 positioned at the periphery of the second alignmentelement 118. As will be discussed in further detail herein, the groove136 is configured to interface with the projection 132 of the firstalignment element 116 so as to move the spray head 104 toward thealigned position during docking. The second alignment element 118 alsoincludes centering elements 138 positioned circumferentially around theexterior surface thereof. The centering elements 138 are configured tointerface with the outlet 106 of the faucet body 102 to aid in centeringthe spray head 104 during docking. In some examples, the centeringelements 138 are configured to interface with a portion of the firstalignment element 116. In some examples, the centering elements 138 arefins, with the narrowest side of the fin being configured to interfacewith the faucet body 102/first alignment element 116 first.

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the alignment coupling 114 when thefirst and second alignment elements 116, 118 are positioned in a fullyengaged position. FIG. 11 shows the alignment coupling 114 partiallyexploded, and the first and second alignment elements 116, 118 are shownspaced apart from one another. As shown, the second alignment element118 has a generally cylindrical outer profile shape and the firstalignment element 116 has a complementary shape, such as a circularrecess (e.g., the ring 131) for the outer profile of the secondalignment element 118 to be received within. In some examples, therelationship can be reversed and the first alignment element 116 canhave a cylindrical shape while the second alignment element 118 has acomplementary shape. It is considered within the scope of the presentdisclosure that the first or second alignment elements 116, 118 can havea variety of different geometric profiles and are not limited to acylindrical shape and corresponding complementary shape.

In some examples, the fully engaged position of the first and secondalignment elements 116, 118 corresponds with the aligned position of thespray head 104. In some examples, when in the fully engaged position, alongitudinal axis S of the second alignment element 118 and a centralaxis B of the ring 131 of the first alignment element 116 are generallyaligned. In the depicted example, the projection 132 of the firstalignment element 116 is received and positioned within the groove 136of the second alignment element 118 when the alignment coupling 114 isin the fully engaged position. As shown, the second alignment element118 is configured to be positioned within at least a portion of thefirst alignment element 116. In some examples, when in the fully engagedposition, the second alignment element 118 is positioned within the ring131 of the first alignment element 116.

FIGS. 12 and 13 show perspective views of the first alignment element116. FIG. 14 shows a side cross-sectional view. As shown, the firstalignment element 116 includes the ring 131, where the projection 132extends radially inward therefrom. The first alignment element 116 alsoincludes the tongue 126 that extends generally in an axial directionaway from the ring 131. Further still, the first alignment element 116includes the faucet body alignment portion 128 at a lower side of thering 131. In the example shown, the faucet body alignment portion 128 isa projection.

In some examples, the ring 131 is only a partial ring and is configuredto only partially surround the pathway 122 of the outlet 106 of thefaucet body 102. Further, the projection 132 can extend radially inwardfrom the ring 131 at any point on the ring 131. For example, theprojection 132 can extend inward from either side or from the bottom ofthe ring 131, not just from the top, as shown. Further still, the ring131 can include a plurality of other alignment features disposed thereonsuch as, but not limited to, additional projections and/or grooves.

As shown in FIG. 14, the tongue 126 can include a wall 140 that at leastpartially defines a ramped portion 142. As noted above, the tongue 126,specifically the wall 140, extends in a general axial direction awayfrom the ring 131. While in the example shown, the first alignmentelement 116 includes the tongue 126, the first alignment element doesnot have to include a tongue 126. In some examples, the first alignmentelement 116 only includes an alignment feature, such as the projection132.

The first alignment element 116 can be constructed of a variety ofdifferent materials including, but not limited to, metal (e.g.,aluminum) and plastic (e.g., Rulon, Derlin, or other like PTFEplastics).

FIGS. 15-17 show the second alignment element 118. FIG. 15 shows aperspective view, FIG. 16 shows a side view, and FIG. 17 shows a sidecross-sectional view.

The second alignment element 118 includes a first end 144 and a secondend 146. The first end 144 is configured to be inserted into the faucetbody 102 before the second end 146. In some examples, the first end 144is configured to receive the water hose 124 at an opening 147. In someexamples, the second end 146 is configured to be attached to a portionof the spray head 104.

In some examples, the second alignment element 118 includes a pair ofgrooves 136 positioned at opposite sides of the second alignment element118. In some examples, only a single groove 136 is utilized foralignment. Each groove 136 includes a pair of walls 148 that togetherdefine the boundaries of the groove 136. In some examples, the groove136 has a tapered shape defined by the walls 148 that extend toward oneanother from the first end 144 in a direction toward the second end 146.In some examples, the tapered shape of the groove 136 is v-shaped. Insome examples, the walls 148 extend toward one another in a generallyaxial direction from the first end 144. In some examples, the walls 148extend toward one another in a direction that is partially in the axialdirection and partially in the circumferential direction. The groove 136is configured in a way so that immediately adjacent the first end 144,the walls 148 are separated at a distance to define the widest portionof the groove 136. As the walls 148 extend toward the second end 146,the walls 148 progressively narrow the groove 136 until they intersectwith one another. Adjacent the point of intersection of the walls 148,the groove 136 has its narrowest width and defines a pocket 150.

FIG. 17 shows a cross sectional view of the second alignment element118. As shown, the second alignment element 118 defines a passageway 152that extends longitudinally through the second alignment element 118.The opening 147 at the first end 144 is a first opening of thepassageway 152 and an opening 154 at the second end 146 is the secondopening of the passageway 152. The passageway is configured to receivethe water hose 124 within the opening 147 at the first end 144. Thepassageway is further configured to be connected at the opening 154 ofthe second end 146 to the spray head 104. In some examples, thepassageway 152 can include threads, a recess, a series of projections,and/or other like attachment structures to aid in attaching the waterhose 124 and the spray head 104 thereto. In the depicted examples, thepassageway 152 includes internal threads 156 for attaching the waterhose 124 and a series of recesses 158 at the opening 154 adjacent thesecond end 146 to receive corresponding projections of an attachmentportion of the spray head 104. In some examples, the recesses 158 allowfor a bayonet connection between the spray head 104 and the secondalignment element 118. FIG. 18 shows another example of a secondalignment element 218 that utilizes internal threads 258 at a second end246 to attach to the spray head 104.

Like the first alignment element 116, the second alignment element 118can be constructed of a variety of different materials including, butnot limited to, metal (e.g., aluminum) and plastic (e.g., Rulon, Derlin,or other like PTFE plastics).

FIGS. 19-21 show a series of schematic illustrations of an exampleinterfacing of the first and second alignment elements 116, 118 of thealignment coupling 114 during the docking of a spray head 104. Theprojection 132 of the first alignment element 116 is shown. The groove136 of the second alignment element 118 is shown approaching theprojection 132, indicated by the dashed arrow. The example shown isrepresentative of the spray head 104 being re-docked to the fixed faucetbody 102 having the projection 132.

As shown in FIG. 20, as the walls 148 of the groove 136 interface withthe projection 132, due to the tapered nature of the groove 136, thewalls 148 slide along the fixed projection 132 in a direction thatbrings the pocket 150 closer to the projection 132. Because the secondalignment element 118, and therefore the groove 136, is fixed to thespray head 104, as the walls 148 slide on the projection 132, the sprayhead 104 is rotated and moved closer to the aligned position. In someexamples, the second alignment element 118 can be fixed to the waterhose 124 and the water hose 124 is fixed to the spray head 104.Therefore, upon rotation of the water hose 124 by the second alignmentelement 118, the water hose 124 rotates the spray head 104.

As shown in FIG. 21, once the walls 148 have slid along the projection132 to where the projection 132 becomes positioned within the pocket150, the spray head 104 is in the aligned position and docked, and thusthe alignment coupling 114 is in the fully engaged position. Such moveis done automatically due to the shape of the groove 136 and/or theprojection 132.

As noted above, the relationship of the groove 136 and the projection132 can be reversed so that the projection 132 is positioned on thesecond alignment element 118 and the groove 136 is positioned on thefirst alignment element 116. In such an example, the projection 132 ofthe spray head 104 would move within the groove 136 as the spray head104 is being docked and automatically position itself in the pocket 150of the groove thanks to the tapered, V-shape configuration. When in thepocket 150, the spray head 104 would be positioned in the alignedposition.

FIG. 22 shows a perspective exploded view of the spray head 104. Asshown, the spray head 104 includes an outer housing 160 and a valve 162positioned within the outer housing 160. In some examples, the valve 162is configured to alter the characteristic of the water as it is expelledfrom the spray head outlet 112. The user input 110 is configured tocontrol the operation of the valve 162. As shown, the valve 162 includesan attachment portion 166 that includes a plurality of projections 168.The attachment portion 166 is configured to be connected to the secondend 146 of the second alignment element 118. The projections 168 areconfigured to be received in the recesses 158 of the second alignmentelement 118 to allow for a bayonet attachment between the spray head 104and the second alignment element 118.

FIGS. 23 and 24 depict the water hose 124 connected to the first end 144of the second alignment element 118. As shown, the second alignmentelement 118 is positioned around a portion the water hose 124. As shownin FIG. 24, the water hose 124 includes a fitting 170 that is connectedwithin the passageway 152 of the second alignment element 118. In someexamples, the fitting 170 is mated with the threads 156 of the secondalignment element 118.

FIGS. 25-27 show a first alignment element 316 according to anotherembodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 28-29 show a secondalignment element 318 configured to interface with the first alignmentelement 316 to form an alignment coupling. The first and secondalignment elements 316, 318 are configured to have functional propertiesthat are substantially similar to the first and second alignmentelements 116, 118 outlined above. The first and second alignmentelements 316, 318 are also constructed out of similar material as thefirst and second alignment elements 116, 118, as described above.

The first alignment element 316 is configured to be positioned withinthe faucet body 102. The first alignment element 316 includes a pair oframps 348 that surround a passageway 319. The passageway 319 isconfigured to receive the water hose 124. The ramps 348 are configuredto aid in positioning a projection 332 of the second alignment element318. The ramps 348 are configured to extend away from an opening 317 ofthe first alignment element 316 and intersect within one another at apocket 350. Such a configuration allows the projection 332 of the secondalignment element 318 to interface with, and move along, the ramps 348,eventually being automatically positioned at the pocket 350. When theprojection 332 is positioned within the pocket 350, the spray head 104is in the aligned position.

As seen in FIGS. 28 and 29, the second alignment element 318 has atapered outer surface 321 to ease insertion into the opening 317 of thefirst alignment element 316. Like the second alignment element 118described above, the second alignment element 318 is configured to bepositioned around the water hose 124. In some examples, the secondalignment element 318 is positioned adjacent the spray head 104. In someexamples, the second alignment element 318 is connected to the sprayhead 104.

The second alignment element 318 includes centering elements 338 thatfunction in a similar way to the centering elements 138 described aboveand aid in positioning the spray head 104 with respect to the faucetbody 102. As shown, the projection 332 extends in a radial directionfrom the outer surface 321. In some examples, the projection 332 ispin-shaped.

FIG. 30 shows a second alignment element 418, according to anotherexample of the present disclosure. The second alignment element 418 isconfigured to interface with a first alignment element similar to thefirst alignment element 116, described above. Accordingly, the secondalignment element 418 is configured to have functional properties thatare substantially similar second alignment elements 118, 218, and 318described above. The second alignment element 418 is constructed out ofsimilar material as the first and second alignment elements 116, 118, asdescribed above.

Like the second alignment elements 118, 218, 318 described above, thesecond alignment element 418 is configured to be positioned around thewater hose 124, specifically connected to a water hose fitting 419. Insome examples, the second alignment element 418 is positioned adjacentthe spray head 104. In some examples, the second alignment element 418is connected to the spray head 104.

With continued reference to FIG. 30, the second alignment element 418connected to both the water hose fitting 419 at a first end 460, and avalve component 470 at a second end 462. FIGS. 31 and 32 show the valvecomponent 470 separated from the second alignment element 418.

In some examples, the valve component 470 is a portion of a valve,similar to valve 162, positioned within the spray head 104. In someexamples, the valve component 470 passes water from the second alignmentelement 418 and out of the spray head 104. In some examples, the valveof which the valve component 470 is a part of, is configured to alterthe characteristic of the water as it is expelled from the spray headoutlet 112. In some examples, the valve of which the valve component 470is a part of, is configured to not alter the characteristic of the wateras it is expelled from the spray head outlet 112.

The second alignment element 418 is connected to the valve component 470at the second end 462. In some examples, the second end 462 is connectedover the valve component 470. In some examples, the second end 462 isconnected within the valve component 470. In some examples, the secondalignment element 418 is threaded onto the valve component 470. In otherexamples, the valve component includes a projection, similar to theprojections 168 described above, to allow for a bayonet-type connectionbetween the second alignment element 418 and the valve component 470. Inthe depicted example, the second end 462 is threaded onto the valvecomponent 470 and includes at least one second alignment stop element472 that is configured to mate with a spray head stop 474 positionedadjacent an attachment portion 466 of the valve component 470.

In the depicted example, the second end 462 of the second alignmentelement 418 includes more than one second alignment stop element 472. Insome examples, the second alignment stop 472 can be one of a projectionand a recess. In some examples, the spray head stop 474 can be the otherof the projection and recess from the second alignment stop 472 of thesecond alignment element 418.

When mated together, the stops 472, 474 prevent incorrect assembly ofthe second alignment element 418 and the valve component 470. As such,the stops 472, 474 ensure consistent assembly of the second alignmentelement 418 and the valve component 470 because the second alignmentelement stop 472 bottoms out the rotation in a first direction F1 of thesecond alignment element 418 with respect to the valve component 470. Insome examples, the second alignment stop 472 and the spray head stop 474rotationally align the second alignment element 418 and the valvecomponent 470. In some examples, the valve component 470 is connected tothe spray head 104 in a way to prevent relative rotation between thevalve component 470 and the outer housing 160 of the spray head 104.Because of this, if the second alignment element 418 is aligned properlywith the valve component 470 when the second alignment element 418interacts with a first alignment element (e.g., first alignment element116), the second alignment element 418 consistently properly aligns thespray head 104 with the faucet body 104.

In some examples, the second alignment stop 472 and the spray head stop474 prevent over-tightening the second alignment element 418 with thevalve component 470.

FIG. 33 shows an exploded view of the water hose fitting 419, the secondalignment element 418, and the valve component 470. As shown, the secondalignment element 418 includes a seal assembly 475 positioned therein.The seal assembly 475 includes a holder 476, a collar 477, a first seal478, a second seal 479, a seal holder 480, a spring 481, and a springcage 482.

The seal assembly 475 is configured to aid in sealing a sphericalportion 417 of the water hose fitting 419 within the second alignmentelement 418. The water hose fitting 419 is allowed to move with respectto the second alignment element 418. Specifically, the spherical portion417 of the water hose fitting 419 is configured to form a balljoint-like connection with the second alignment element 418.

In one example, when the second alignment element 418 is connected tothe spray head 104, the ball joint-like connection with the secondalignment element 418 facilitates easy swiveling of the spray head 104with respect to the water hose 124. In the depicted example, as waterpressure increases within the spray head 104, the seal assembly 475increases the seal force on the water hose fitting 419. As waterpressure decreases, the seal assembly 475 decreases the seal force onthe water hose fitting 419. It is considered within the scope of thepresent disclosure that, with the use of devices inside of the sprayhead 104 (e.g., valves, restrictors, etc.), water pressure within thespray head 104 can be manipulated. In the depicted example, the sealforce on the water hose fitting 419 increases when water is dispensedfrom the spray head 104 and decreases when water is not dispensed fromthe spray head 104. However, in some examples, the seal force on thewater hose fitting 419 decreases when water is dispensed from the sprayhead 104 and increases when water is not dispensed from the spray head104.

FIG. 34 shows a side view of the second alignment element 418 and thewater hose fitting 419 mated together. FIG. 35 shows a cross-sectionalview of the second alignment element 418 and water hose fitting 419along line 35-35 in FIG. 34.

The spherical portion 417 of the water hose fitting 419 is positionedwithin the first end of the second alignment element 418 so that afitting inner passage 415 of water hose fitting 419 communicates with aninner passage 483 of the second alignment element 418.

The holder 476 is configured to be positioned within a main inner cavity486 of the second alignment element 418. In some examples, the holder476 can be threaded into the main inner cavity 486. The holder 476 isconfigured to aid in axially positioning the first seal 478, the secondseal 479, the seal holder 480, the spring 481, and the spring cage 482within the main inner cavity 486. In some examples, the holder 476includes an interior seal chamber 491 that has a first end 492 and asecond end 493. The spring 481 is positioned within the interior sealchamber 491 between first and second ends 492, 493 of the interior sealchamber 491. In some examples, the spring 481 is positioned between thefirst end 492 of the interior seal chamber 491 and the first seal 478.The second seal 479 and the seal holder 480 are positioned adjacent thesecond end 493 of the interior seal chamber 491 within the main innercavity 486.

The collar 477 of the seal assembly 475 surrounds a first end 484 of thespherical portion 417 of the water hose fitting 419. In some examples,the collar 477 has a tapered aperture 485 to facilitate the insertion ofthe spherical portion 417 therethrough. In some examples, the collar 477can be a rubber seal. In some examples, the collar 477 can act as abushing between the second alignment element 418 and the water hosefitting 419.

The first seal 478 is positioned around the spherical portion 417 of thewater hose fitting 419, immediately adjacent the seal holder 480 and thecollar 477. In some examples, the first seal 478 is positioned withinthe main inner cavity 486 of the second alignment element 418. In someexamples, the main inner cavity 486 houses the holder 476, the firstseal 478, the second seal 479, the seal holder 480, the spring 481, andthe spring cage 482. In some examples, the main inner cavity 486 has aconsistent diameter along its length to facilitate the installation ofthe seal assembly 475 within the second alignment element 418. In someexamples, the first seal 478 is a rubber seal.

The second seal 479 is positioned around a second end 487 of thespherical portion 417 of the water hose fitting 419. Specifically, thesecond seal 479 defines an aperture 490 that is sized and shaped toreceive the second end 487 of the spherical portion 417. The second seal479 is positioned immediately adjacent the seal holder 480 and thespring cage 482. The second seal 479 is rotationally captured by theseal holder 480 and is configured to be compressed by a force receivedat a first axial side 488, opposite a second axial side 489 that facesthe seal holder 480. As the force received at the first axial side 488fluctuates, the second seal 479 moves axially along a longitudinal axisX of the seal assembly 475. In some examples, the second seal 479 doesnot contact the main inner cavity 486 when there is no force received atthe axial side 488. In some examples, the aperture 490 of the secondseal 479 travels toward the first end 484 of the spherical portion 417when a force is received at the axial side 488, thereby forming atighter seal around the spherical portion 417, due to the sphericalconfiguration of the spherical portion 417 of the water hose fitting419. In some examples, the second seal 479 is a rubber seal.

The seal holder 480 is configured to interlock and mate with the secondseal 479 to prevent relative rotation between the seal holder 480 andthe second seal 479. In some examples, the seal holder 480 is of adifferent material than the second seal 479. In some examples, the sealholder 480 is a rigid material, such as plastic.

As noted above, the spring 481 is positioned within the interior sealchamber 491 of the holder 476. The spring 481 is positioned between thefirst end 492 of the seal chamber 491 and the second seal 479. In someexamples, the spring 481 is also positioned around a cage portion 494 ofthe spring cage 482 and in contact with a flange 495 of the spring cage482. In some examples, the spring 481 is configured to exert apredetermined force at the first axial side 488 of the second seal 479.As depicted, the spring 481 is a compression spring. The spring 481 canbe a variety of different types of springs, for example, a helicalspring, a wave spring, a conical spring, a disc spring, etc.

The spring cage 482 is configured to be movably positioned within theinterior seal chamber 491. The spring cage 482 includes the cage portion494 and the flange 495. In some examples, the seal assembly 475 does notinclude a spring cage 482. In some examples, the spring cage 482 isconstructed of a rigid material.

The cage portion 494 is positioned inside the spring 481 and allowswater to flow axially and radially through the cage portion 494 andfreely within the seal chamber 491. In the depicted example, the cageportion 494 is cylindrical and includes a plurality of slots 497 toallow for radial water flow therethrough. In some examples, only axialflow through the cage portion is permitted. In some examples, the cageportion 494 and the flange 495 are separate pieces. In some examples,the cage portion and flange 495 are monolithically formed.

The flange 495 is positioned between the spring 481 and the second seal479. The flange 495 is generally circular and dispenses a force to thesecond seal 479 from the seal chamber 491. In some examples, the sealassembly 475 only includes the flange 495 and not the cage portion 494.In some examples, the flange 495 is a washer.

FIGS. 36 and 37 show perspective views of a portion of the seal assembly475, and FIG. 38 shows an exploded view of a portion of the sealassembly 475. As shown, the second seal 479 and the seal holder 480interlock with one another to prevent relative rotation therebetween. Inthe depicted example, the seal holder 480 includes a plurality ofprojections 498 that are received by a plurality of recesses 499 of thesecond seal 479. It is considered within the scope of the presentdisclosure that the seal holder 480 and second seal 479 can interlockwith each other in a variety of ways.

FIG. 39 is a schematic depiction of the seal assembly 475. Water isindicated by arrows W. In some examples, the water pressure within theseal chamber 491 exerts a force on the spring cage 482, thus exerting aforce on the second seal 479 via the flange 495. Pressurized water Wwithin the seal chamber 491 exerts a force on the second seal 479,thereby axially moving the second seal 479 toward the first seal 478.The force exerted on the second seal 479 by the pressurized water W isin addition to the predetermined amount of force exerted by the spring481 on the second seal 479. The movement of the second seal 479 towardthe first seal 478 tightens the connection of the aperture 490 aroundthe second end 487 of the spherical portion 417 of the water hosefitting 419, thus automatically increasing the seal around the waterhose fitting 419. As water pressured within the seal chamber 491decreases, the force exerted on the second seal 479 is reduced, therebyallowing the second seal 479 to move away from the first seal 478, thusloosening the connection of the aperture 490 around the second end 487of the spherical portion 417 of the water hose fitting 419 andautomatically decreasing the seal around the water hose fitting 419. Insome examples, the lowest force exerted on the second seal 479 is theforce exerted by the spring 481. This occurs when there is no forceexerted by the pressurized water W within the seal chamber 491. In someexamples, low flowing water may only exert a low amount of force withinthe seal chamber 491 due to the low water pressure associated with thelow flowing water. The spring 481 ensures that a minimum force is alwaysexerted on the second seal 479 so that a minimum seal can be formedaround the water hose fitting 419 even in low flowing water conditions.In the depicted example, water W enters the seal chamber 491 via thefitting inner passage 415. If the spray head 104 is dispensing water,the pressurized water W travels into the seal chamber 491, increasingthe seal around the water hose fitting 491, through the seal assembly475, and out of the spray head 104. If water is not being dispensed fromthe spray head 104, water W does not pass through the seal assembly 475and minimal water pressure exists within the seal chamber 491.

FIG. 40 shows a faucet 500 including a faucet body 502 and a faucetspray head 504 that is detachable from a faucet body outlet 506 of thefaucet body 502. The faucet 500, and specifically the spray head 504 andthe faucet body 502, is substantially similar to the faucet 100, andspecifically the spray head 104 and the faucet body 102 described above.As shown in FIG. 40, the spray head 504 is docked with, and immediatelyadjacent, the faucet body 502, in the retracted position. The spray head504 is movable away, in the extended position, from the faucet body 502so as to allow the user the ability to manipulate the spray head 504during use.

Although the faucet 500 can be a pull-down kitchen faucet, thisdisclosure encompasses other types of faucets, including but not limitedto, pull-out faucets. Although this disclosure will be discussed withregard to a kitchen faucet for purposes of example, the system describedherein could be implemented in any type of pull-down faucet and/or apull-out faucet, including a side auxiliary spray faucet. In someexamples, the faucet 500 is a showerhead in a shower. In some examples,the faucet 500 is any fluid dispensing device that is configured todispense fluid therefrom.

As noted above, the spray head 504 is detachable so that it can beundocked from the faucet body 502 to allow for maneuverability by theuser to aim the spray head 504. In some examples, the operation of auser input 510 can facilitate the toggling of a valve positioned withinthe spray head 504. The user input 510 can toggle characteristics of theexpelled water, such as, but not limited to, volume and/or temperature.In some examples, the user input 510 is one of a button, a touchsensitive surface, or the like.

The spray head 504 has at least one aligned position when docked withthe faucet body 502. The spray head 504 can have multiple alignedpositions. In some examples, the spray head 504 has two alignedpositions, approximately 180 degrees apart from one another around anelongate axis of the spray head 504. An aligned position is a positionthat the spray head 504 returns to automatically when spray head 504 isdocked with the faucet body 502. The aligned position can be a varietyof different positions depending on the aesthetics of the faucet 500, aswell as the particular use of the faucet 500. In the depicted example,when in the aligned position, a user input 510 is positioned facing thefaucet body 502. In some examples, when in the aligned position, theuser input 510 is positioned facing the left, right, or away from thefaucet body 502.

FIGS. 41-44 shows one example of the movement of the spray head 504 asit is guided to the aligned position. Such alignment is facilitated byan alignment coupling 514, which includes a first alignment element 516and a second alignment element 518. The alignment coupling 514 issubstantially similar to the alignment couplings described above. In thedepicted example, the second alignment element 518 is movable withrespect to the first alignment element 516.

The first and second alignment elements 516, 518 can be positioned at avariety of different locations on the faucet 500. In the illustrativeexample shown, the first alignment element 516 is connected to thefaucet body 502 and the second alignment element 518 is connected to thespray head 504. In some examples, the second alignment element 518 ispositioned around a water hose (not shown) of the faucet 500. In otherexamples, the second alignment element 518 is attached to a water hoseof the faucet 500. In some examples, the first and second alignmentelements 516, 518 are integrally formed in the faucet body 502 and sprayhead 504. In some examples, the first and second alignment elements 516,518 are separate parts from the faucet body 502 and spray head 504.

The spray head 504 is retained immediately adjacent the faucet body 502by way of a retention coupling 515. In some examples, the alignmentcoupling 514 aligns the spray head 504 and the retention coupling 515retains the spray head 504 in the aligned position. In some examples,the retention coupling 515 includes a first retention element 517connected to the faucet body 502, and a second retention element 519connected to the faucet spray head 504. In some examples, the retentioncoupling 515 is separate from the alignment coupling 514. In otherexamples still, at least one of the first or second retention elements517, 519 is a magnet.

FIG. 45 shows a cross-sectional view of the faucet 500 with the sprayhead 504 in the aligned position. FIG. 45 also shows a water hosefitting 524 movably attached to the spray head 504 and positioned withinthe faucet body 502. The water hose fitting 524 can be attached to awater hose that is positioned within the faucet body 502 and movabletherein.

In the depicted example, the first alignment element 516 is positionedwithin the faucet body 502, adjacent the outlet 506. In the depictedexample, the first retention element 517 is positioned within the faucetbody 502, and the second alignment element 518 is positioned at leastpartially within the spray head 504. In the depicted example, the secondretention element 519 is positioned within the spray head 504, adjacentthe second alignment element 518.

The faucet 500 is shown to include a valve 562 in the spray head 504. Insome examples, the valve 562 can be connected to, and operable by, theuser input 510.

In the depicted example, the first alignment element 516 includes a ring531 and a tongue 526, the tongue 526 extending in an axial directionfrom the ring 531, adjacent the outlet 506 of the faucet body 502. Insome examples, the ring 531 includes a projection 532 extending radiallyinward therefrom within the outlet 506 of the faucet body 502. In thedepicted example, the projection 532 is positioned at a bottom side ofthe first alignment element 516; however, it is considered within thescope of the present disclosure that the projection 532 can bepositioned in a variety of locations.

The first retention element 517 is positioned adjacent the outlet 506 ofthe faucet body 502. In some examples, the first retention element 517includes a projection 507 that mates with a corresponding recess 509 onthe faucet body 502 to reduce relative movement between the faucet body502 and the first retention element 517. It is considered within thescope of the present disclosure, that the first retention element 517can have a recess that can mate with a projection of the faucet body502. In some examples, the first retention element 517 is fixed to thefaucet body 502 by way of a fastener, such as, but not limited to, atleast one screw, bolt, adhesive, and/or the like.

Referring still to FIG. 45, shows the second alignment element 518threaded into the spray head 504. In the depicted example, the secondalignment element 518 is positioned around the water hose fitting 524.The second alignment element 518 includes an alignment feature thatincludes groove 536 positioned at the periphery of the second alignmentelement 518. The groove 536 is configured to interface with theprojection 532 of the first alignment element 516 so as to guide thespray head 504 toward the aligned position. In some examples, the secondalignment element 518 has a plurality of grooves 536 that are eachconfigured to interface with the projection 532 of the first alignmentelement 516 so as to guide the spray head 504 toward the a plurality ofaligned positions.

The second retention element 519 is positioned in the spray head 504 andpartially secured within the spray head 504 by the second alignmentelement 518. In the depicted example, the second retention element 519is positioned within the spray head 504 by way of a flange 525. Asshown, when the faucet body 502 and faucet spray head 504 areimmediately adjacent one another, the flange 525 is positioned betweenthe first retention element 517 and the second retention element 519.The flange 525 can be a variety of shapes (e.g., thicknesses) to adjustfor variability in the size, strength, and position of the first andsecond retention elements 517, 519. In some examples, when the faucetbody 502 and faucet spray head 504 are immediately adjacent one another,the second retention element 519 is partially positioned within thefirst retention element 517 within the faucet body 502. In it isconsidered within the present disclosure that the first and secondretention element 517, 519 can be positioned in a variety of differentways to retain the faucet body 502 and faucet spray head 504 immediatelyadjacent one another.

In the depicted example, the second retention element 519 is a magnet.In some examples, the magnet is a neodymium magnet. In some examples,the second retention element 519 is coated with a coating, such as anepoxy. In some examples, the coating provides the second retentionelement 519 with at least some corrosion resistance. In some examples,second retention element 519 is partially held in place in the sprayhead 504 by a fastener, such as, but not limited to, at least one screw,bolt, adhesive, and/or the like. In some examples, the second retentionelement 519 is epoxied into the spray head 504. In some examples, thesecond retention element 519 is not a complete ring. In some examples,the second retention element 519 includes multiple pieces. It isconsidered within the scope of the present disclosure that the secondretention element 519 can be a variety of different shapes, sizes, andmaterials.

The second retention element 519 and the first retention element 517 areattracted to one another to retain the spray head 504. The secondretention element 519 is positioned at least partially between thesecond alignment element 518 and a positioning ring 521. In someexamples, a bumper 523 is positioned between the second retentionelement 519 and the positioning ring 521 so that the bumper 523 at leastpartially prevents hard contact between the second alignment element 518and the positioning ring 521. In some examples, the second retentionelement 519 is a brittle magnet and the bumper 523 reduces hard contactbetween the second retention element 519 and the positioning ring 521.The bumper 523 can be constructed of a variety of materials such as, butnot limited to, a rubber, a foam tape, or other like material.

In some examples, the positioning ring 521 is configured to at leastpartially position the second retention element 519 within the sprayhead 504. In some examples, the positioning ring 521 has an integralbumper configured to interface with the second retention element 519. Insome examples, the positioning ring 521 is threaded into the spray head504. In some examples, the positioning ring 521 is metal. In someexamples, the positioning ring 521 is a plastic material.

FIG. 46 shows the first alignment element 516 and the first retentionelement 517 positioned within the faucet body 502. In some examples, atleast one of the first alignment element 516 or the first retentionelement 517 are positioned at least partially between the outlet 506 andan apex of a neck 508.

In some examples, the first retention element 517 is fixed within theoutlet 506 of the faucet body 502. The first retention element 517 canbe integral with the faucet body 502. In some examples, the firstretention element 517 is integral with the first alignment element 516.In other examples, the first retention element 517 is fixed to thefaucet body 502 by way of a press fit. In other examples still, thefirst retention element 517 is fixed to the faucet body 502 by way ofbrazing, welding, or the like. The first retention element 517, in someexamples, at least partially secures the first alignment element 516 inthe faucet body 502. As shown in the depicted example, the firstalignment element 516 is positioned within, and engaged with, the firstretention element 517. In some examples, the first retention element 517is a metal ring attached into the faucet body 502. In some examples, thefirst retention element 517 is a stainless steel ring welded into thefaucet body 502. In some examples, the first retention element 517 is a2205 magnetic grade stainless steel ring welded into the faucet body502. In some examples, the first retention element 517 is an insert thatis not a complete ring. In some examples, the first retention element517 includes multiple pieces. It is considered within the scope of thepresent disclosure that the first retention element 517 can be a varietyof different shapes, sizes, and materials.

In some examples, the first alignment element 516 is at least partiallyconstructed from a plastic. In some examples, the first alignmentelement 516 is clipped at least partially behind the first retentionelement 517 within the outlet 506.

FIG. 47 shows the second alignment element 518 mounted to the spray head504. FIG. 48 shows the second alignment element 518, second retentionelement 519, bumper 523, and positioning ring 521 spaced away from thespray head 504. In some examples, the second alignment element 518 isfixed to the spray head 504 to prevent relative movement therebetween.In some examples, the second alignment element 518 is mounted adjacentto the spray head 504. In some examples, the second alignment element518 is positioned around the end of the water hose fitting 524. In someexamples, the spray head 504 includes a cover 522.

The flange 525, attached to the second alignment element 518 in thedepicted examples, helps to secure the second retention element 519within the spray head 504. In some examples, the flange 525 is separatefrom the second alignment element 518. In some examples, the flange 525acts as a buffer between the first retention element 517 and the secondretention element 519.

FIG. 49 shows a perspective view of the first alignment element 516. Asshown, the first alignment element 516 includes the ring 531, where theprojection 532 extends radially inward therefrom. The first alignmentelement 516 also includes the tongue 526 with a ramped portion 542 thatextends generally in an axial direction away from the ring 531. Thetongue 526 is configured to at least partially guide a water hoseattached to the spray head 504. In some examples, the first alignmentelement 516 includes an auxiliary alignment projection 533 extendingradially inward from the ring 531 to aid in aligning the spray head 504.In further examples, first alignment element 516 includes at least onefastener 535 to position the first alignment element 516 behind thefirst retention element 517 within the faucet body 502. In the depictedexample, the fastener 535 is a pair of clips.

FIG. 50 shows a perspective view of the second alignment element 518.The second alignment element 518 is generally cylindrical. As notedabove, the second alignment element 518 is substantially similar to thealignment elements described above. The second alignment element 518includes an alignment feature that includes at least one tapered groove536 positioned at the periphery of the second alignment element 518. Insome examples, the second alignment element 518 includes a pair ofgrooves 536, on opposite sides (i.e. separated by approximately 180degrees) at the periphery of the second alignment element 518. Dependingon the desired amount of, and position of, aligned positions, it isconsidered within the scope of the present disclosure that a variety ofdifferent numbers of grooves separated by a variety of differentseparations can be used.

The groove 536 is v-shaped and configured to interface with and contactthe projection 532 of the first alignment element 516 to move the sprayhead 504 toward a narrower portion of the groove 536 so that the sprayhead 504 is moved to the aligned position during docking. When the sprayhead 504 is decoupled and spaced away from faucet body 502, the groove536 and the projection 532 are not in contact with one another. Thegroove 536 has walls 537 that extend toward one another in a generallyaxial direction that guide the projection 532. In some examples, thesecond alignment element 518 includes threads 539 to be mated with thespray head 504. In some examples, the flange 525 is positioned on thesecond alignment element 518 between the groove 536 and the threads 539.

FIG. 51 show another perspective view of the second alignment element518. The second alignment element 518 includes a first end 544 and asecond end 546. The first end 544 is configured to interface with thefirst alignment element 516 and the second end 546 is configured to bemated with a portion of the faucet spray head 504. The second end 546 isshown to include at least one alignment stop 548 configured to mate witha corresponding spray head alignment stop 550 of the faucet spray head504, shown in FIG. 52. The alignment stops 548, 550 operatesubstantially similar to the alignment elements described above. Thealignment stops 548, 550 aid in proper assembly of second alignmentelement 518 and spray head 504 and the alignment stops 548, 550 furtheraid in reducing the opportunity of the second alignment element 518 frombeing removed, e.g. unthreaded, from the spray head 504.

The alignment stop 548 and the spray head alignment stop 550 include atleast one projection. In some examples, as shown in FIG. 51, thealignment stop 548 can be one of a projection and a recess. In thedepicted example, the second end 546 of the second alignment element 518includes more than one alignment stop. In some examples, the spray headalignment stop 550 can be the other of the projection and recess fromthe alignment stop 548 of the second alignment element 518.

The alignment stop 548 includes a spring-loaded tab 552 and a rotationalstop 554 that are configured to reduce relative axial rotation of thesecond alignment element 516 in a first direction F1 and an oppositesecond direction F2 between the second alignment element 518 and thefaucet spray head 504. When mating together, the spring-loaded tab 552flexes over spray head alignment stop 550 and the rotational stop 554engages the opposite side of the spray head alignment stop 550 to reducerelative rotation between the spray head 504 and the second alignmentelement 518. Because of this, when the second alignment element 518 isaligned properly with the spray head 504, the second alignment element518 works with the first alignment element 516 to consistently properlyalign the spray head 504 with the faucet body 502.

Examples of the disclosure are reflected in the below-listing ofexamples, as well as the claims included herein.

In Example 1, a faucet includes a faucet body including a firstalignment element located at an outlet within the faucet body and afaucet spray head being positionable at the outlet of the faucet body.The faucet spray head includes a second alignment element, the faucetspray head having an aligned position and a plurality of misalignedpositions with respect to the faucet body. The first and secondalignment elements form an alignment coupling, the alignment couplingincluding a projection and a tapered groove, wherein at least one ismovable with respect to the other, and wherein, when the projection ispositioned at a narrowest portion of the tapered groove, the faucetspray head is in the aligned position.

In Example 2, the faucet of Example 1 is modified in that the projectionis configured to interface with walls of the tapered groove to align thefaucet spray head.

In Example 3, the faucet of Example 1 is modified in that the firstalignment element includes a ring and a tongue, the tongue extending inan axial direction from the ring, wherein the ring includes theprojection extending radially inward therefrom within the outlet of thefaucet body.

In Example 4, the faucet of Example 1 is modified in that the firstalignment element includes a tongue surface, wherein the tongue surfaceextends within the faucet body from the outlet of the faucet body, andwherein the tongue surface is raised above a lower surface of the faucetbody.

In Example 5, the faucet of Example 1 is modified in that the secondalignment element is generally cylindrical, and the tapered groove haswalls that extend toward one another in a generally axial direction onan outer surface of the second alignment element to form a v-shapedgroove.

In Example 6, the faucet of Example 1 is modified in that the alignmentcoupling includes at least one centering element, wherein the at leastone centering element is configured to center the faucet spray headwithin the outlet of the faucet body.

In Example 7, the faucet of Example 1 is modified in that the at leastone centering element is a plurality of centering elements positioned ata periphery of the second alignment element.

In Example 8, the faucet of Example 1 is modified in that the faucetbody includes an arcuate neck that includes the outlet, wherein anarcuate side profile is created when the faucet spray head is in thealigned position, and wherein the arcuate side profile is interruptedwhen the faucet spray head is in the plurality of misaligned positions.

In Example 9, the faucet of Example 1 is modified in that the alignmentcoupling is coupled when the first and second alignment elements are incontact with each other, and wherein the alignment coupling is decoupledwhen the first and second alignment elements are not in contact witheach other, wherein when decoupled, the faucet spray head is spaced awayfrom the outlet of the faucet body.

In Example 10, the faucet of Example 1 is modified to further include awater hose connected to the faucet spray head, wherein the secondalignment element is secured around the water hose, wherein the waterhose includes a pullback feature in communication therewith, and whereinthe pullback feature pulls the faucet spray head toward the outlet ofthe faucet body.

In Example 11, the faucet of Example 10 is modified in that the pullbackfeature is a weight attached to the water hose.

In Example 12, the faucet of Example 1 is modified in that the alignmentcoupling is integral with the faucet body and faucet spray head.

In Example 13, the faucet of Example 1 is modified in that the alignmentcoupling is mounted to the faucet body and faucet spray head.

In Example 14, a faucet includes a faucet body; a faucet spray headmovable with respect to the faucet body; a first alignment elementmounted within the faucet body, the first alignment element having afirst alignment feature, the first alignment feature including one of aprojection and a tapered groove; and a second alignment element mountedto the faucet spray head, the second alignment element having a secondalignment feature, the second alignment feature including the other ofthe projection and tapered groove. The projection is configured tointerface with walls of the tapered groove to align the faucet sprayhead.

In Example 15, the faucet of Example 14 is modified in that the firstalignment element includes a ring and a tongue, the tongue extending inan axial direction from the ring, wherein the ring includes theprojection extending radially inward therefrom.

In Example 16, the faucet of Example 14 is modified in that the firstalignment element includes a tongue surface, wherein the tongue surfaceextends within the faucet body from the outlet of the faucet body, andwherein the tongue surface is raised above a lower surface of the faucetbody.

In Example 17, the faucet of Example 14 is modified in that the secondalignment element is generally cylindrical, and the tapered groove haswalls that extend toward one another in a generally axial direction onan outer surface of the second alignment element to form a v-shapedgroove.

In Example 18, the faucet of Example 14 is modified in that the secondalignment element includes a plurality of centering elements, whereinthe plurality of centering elements is configured to center the faucetspray head within the outlet of the faucet body, and wherein theplurality of centering elements is positioned at a periphery of thesecond alignment element.

In Example 19, an alignment coupling for a faucet includes a firstalignment element positionable within a faucet body, the first alignmentelement having a first alignment feature, the first alignment featureincluding one of a projection and a tapered groove, and a secondalignment element being movable with respect to the first alignmentelement, the second alignment element having a second alignment feature,the second alignment feature including the other of the projection andtapered groove.

The tapered groove includes walls that extend toward each other, and thewalls guide the projection to a narrowest portion of the tapered groove.

In Example 20, the alignment coupling of Example 19 is modified in thatthe first alignment element includes a ring and a tongue, the tongueextending in an axial direction from the ring, wherein the ring includesthe projection extending radially inward therefrom.

In Example 21, the alignment coupling of Example 20 is modified in thatthe first alignment element includes a faucet body alignment portionbeing at least one of a projection and a recess, wherein the faucet bodyalignment portion is engagable with a corresponding projection andrecess of the faucet body to align the first alignment element withinthe faucet body.

In Example 22, the alignment coupling of Example 19 is modified in thatthe first alignment element is positionable at an outlet of the faucetbody.

In Example 23, the alignment coupling of Example 19 is modified in thatthe second alignment element is generally cylindrical, and the taperedgroove has walls that extend toward one another in a generally axialdirection on an outer surface of the second alignment element to form av-shaped groove.

In Example 24, the alignment coupling of Example 19 is modified in thatthe second alignment element is positionable adjacent the spray head.

In Example 25, the alignment coupling of Example 19 is modified in thatthe second alignment element is connected to the spray head.

In Example 26, the alignment coupling of Example 25 is modified in thatthe second alignment element is generally cylindrical and includes afirst end and a second end. The first end is configured to interfacewith the first alignment element and the second end is configured to bemated with a portion of the spray head. The second end has at least onealignment stop configured to mate with a spray head alignment stop ofthe spray head to prevent rotation in a first direction between thespray head and the second alignment element, and the at least onealignment stop and the spray head alignment stop include at least oneprojection.

In Example 27, the alignment coupling of Example 26 is modified in thatwhen the at least one alignment stop and the spray head alignment stopare mated with one another, and when the projection of the firstalignment feature is positioned within the narrowest portion of thetapered groove, the spray head and faucet body are in an alignedposition, wherein the faucet body includes an arcuate neck, and whereinan arcuate side profile is created when the spray head is in the alignedposition with the faucet body.

In Example 28, the alignment coupling of Example 26 is modified in thatthe spray head includes a valve component having an attachment portionthat is configured to be connected to the second end of the secondalignment element, wherein the spray head alignment stop is positionedadjacent the attachment portion.

In Example 29, the alignment coupling of Example 28 is modified in thatthe attachment portion includes threads thereon configured to bereceived within the second end of the second alignment element to allowfor a threaded attachment between the spray head and the secondalignment element.

In Example 30, the alignment coupling of Example 26 is modified in thatthe spray head alignment stop is disposed on a valve component of avalve of the spray head, wherein the valve is controlled via a userinput positioned on the spray head.

In Example 31, a fluid dispensing device includes a body; a spray headmovable with respect to the body; a water hose being positioned withinthe body and connected to the spray head at a fitting, the fitting havea spherical portion positioned within the spray head; and a sealassembly positioned within the spray head and positioned at leastpartially around the spherical portion of the fitting. The seal assemblyincludes a holder defining an interior seal chamber, the interior sealchamber having a first end and a second end; a first seal positionedaround the spherical portion of the fitting; a second seal having anopening positioned around the spherical portion of the fitting; a sealholder positioned between the first and second seals, the seal holderand second seal being interlocked to reduce relative rotation betweenthe second seal and the seal holder; and a spring positioned within theinterior seal chamber, wherein the spring is positioned between thefirst end of the seal chamber and the second seal.

In Example 32, the fluid dispensing device of Example 31 is modified tofurther include a further include a spring cage positioned within theinterior seal chamber, the spring cage having a second seal flange and aflow portion, wherein the second seal flange contacts the second sealand the spring, and the flow portion being surrounded by the spring,wherein the flow portion has a perforated construction.

In Example 33, the fluid dispensing device of Example 32 is modified inthat the flow portion of the spring cage is cylindrical.

In Example 34, the fluid dispensing device of Example 31 is modified inthat the seal holder and the second seal interlock with a plurality ofprojections and recesses.

In Example 35, the fluid dispensing device of Example 31 is modified inthat the holder, first seal, second seal, and seal holder are positionedwithin a main body recess of the spray head.

In Example 36, the fluid dispensing device of Example 31 is modified inthat the first seal, second seal, and seal holder are not positionedwithin the interior seal chamber.

In Example 37, the fluid dispensing device of Example 31 is modified inthat the second seal is compressible around an end portion of thespherical portion of the fitting.

In Example 38, the fluid dispensing device of Example 37 is modified inthat the second seal is compressible at a side facing the interior sealchamber.

In Example 39, the fluid dispensing device of Example 37 is modified inthat the second seal is compressible by water pressure.

In Example 40, a fluid dispensing device includes a body; a spray headmovable with respect to the body; a water hose being positioned withinthe body and connected to the spray head at a fitting, the fitting havea spherical portion positioned within the spray head; and a sealassembly positioned within the spray head and positioned at leastpartially around the spherical portion of the fitting, wherein the sealassembly automatically increases a sealing force around the fitting whenthe spray head dispenses water.

In Example 41, the fluid dispensing device of Example 40 is furthermodified in that the seal assembly includes: a holder defining aninterior seal chamber, the interior seal chamber having a first end andsecond end; a first seal positioned around the spherical portion of thefitting; a second seal having an opening positioned around the sphericalportion of the fitting; a seal holder positioned between the first andsecond seals, the seal holder and second seal being interlocked toreduce relative rotation between the second seal and the seal holder;and a spring positioned within the interior seal chamber, wherein thespring is positioned between the first end of the interior seal chamberand the second seal.

In Example 42, a method of operating a fluid dispensing device includesproviding a body and a spray head movable with respect to the body;providing a water hose being positioned within the body and connected tothe spray head at a fitting, the fitting have a spherical portionpositioned within the spray head; providing a seal assembly positionedwithin the spray head and positioned at least partially around thespherical portion of the fitting; automatically increasing a sealingforce around the fitting using the seal assembly when the spray headdispenses water; and automatically decreasing a sealing force around thefitting using the seal assembly when the spray head does not dispensewater.

In Example 43, a faucet includes a faucet body and a faucet spray headbeing movable from a retracted position adjacent the faucet body and anextended position away from the faucet body. In the retracted position,the faucet spray head has an aligned position with the faucet body. Thefaucet includes an alignment coupling. The alignment coupling includes afirst alignment element connected to the faucet body and a secondalignment element connected to the faucet spray head. The alignmentcoupling includes a projection and a tapered groove. At least one of theprojection or the tapered groove is movable with respect to the other,and the tapered groove guides the projection to a narrowed portion ofthe tapered groove to guide the faucet spray head to the alignedposition. The faucet includes a retention coupling that is configured toretain the faucet body and the faucet spray head immediately adjacentone another. The retention coupling includes a first retention elementconnected to the faucet body and a second retention element connected tothe faucet spray head. The retention coupling is separate from thealignment coupling, and at least one of the first or second retentionelements is a magnet.

In Example 44, the faucet of Example 43 is modified in that the secondalignment element at least partially secures the second retentionelement in the faucet spray head.

In Example 45, the faucet of Example 43 is modified in that the firstretention element at least partially secures the first alignment elementin the faucet body.

In Example 46, the faucet of Example 43 is modified in that the secondretention element in the faucet spray head is a magnet.

In Example 47, the faucet of Example 43 is modified in that the firstalignment element includes a ring and a tongue, the tongue extending inan axial direction from the ring at least partially within the faucetbody from an outlet of the faucet body, wherein the ring includes theprojection extending radially inward therefrom within the outlet of thefaucet body, wherein the second alignment element is generallycylindrical, and wherein the tapered groove has walls that extend towardone another in a generally axial direction on an outer surface of thesecond alignment element to form a v-shaped groove.

In Example 48, the faucet of Example 43 is modified in that the firstretention element is a stainless steel ring welded into the faucet body.

In Example 49, the faucet of Example 43 is modified in that the magnetis a coated neodymium magnet.

In Example 50, the faucet of Example 48 is modified in that the magnetis held in place in the faucet spray head by epoxy.

In Example 51, the faucet of Example 48 is modified in that the magnetis positioned at least partially between the second alignment elementand a bumper.

In Example 52, the faucet of Example 43 is modified in that the magnetis positioned at least partially within the faucet spray head betweenthe second alignment element and a positioning ring.

In Example 53, the faucet of Example 52 is modified to further include abumper positioned between the magnet and the positioning ring.

In Example 54, the faucet of Example 43 is modified in that thealignment coupling is coupled when the first and second alignmentelements are in contact with each other, and wherein the alignmentcoupling is decoupled when the first and second alignment elements arenot in contact with each other, wherein when decoupled, the faucet sprayhead is spaced away from an outlet of the faucet body.

In Example 55, the faucet of Example 43 is modified to further include awater hose connected to the faucet spray head, wherein the secondalignment element and second retention element are positioned around thewater hose.

In Example 56, the faucet of Example 43 is modified in that the secondalignment element is generally cylindrical and includes a first end anda second end, wherein the first end is configured to interface with thefirst alignment element and the second end is configured to be matedwith a portion of the faucet spray head, the second end having at leastone alignment stop configured to mate with a spray head alignment stopof the faucet spray head to reduce rotation in a first direction betweenthe faucet spray head and the second alignment element, and wherein theat least one alignment stop and the spray head alignment stop include atleast one projection.

In Example 57, the faucet of Example 56 is modified in that the at leastone alignment stop includes a spring-loaded tab that is configured tocontact the spray head alignment stop.

In Example 58, the faucet of Example 57 is modified in that the at leastone alignment stop includes a rotational stop, wherein the spring-loadedtab and the rotational stop are configured to reduce relative rotationin the first direction and a second direction between the secondalignment element and the faucet spray head.

In Example 59, the faucet of Example 43 is modified in that the faucetspray head has a plurality of misaligned positions with respect to thefaucet body.

In Example 60, the faucet of Example 43 is modified in that the firstalignment element is positioned at least partially between an outlet ofthe faucet body and an apex of an arcuate neck of the faucet body.

In Example 61, the faucet of Example 43 is modified in that the firstretention element is positioned adjacent an outlet of the faucet body.

In Example 62, a faucet includes a faucet body having an outlet and ahose positioned within the faucet body and passing through the outlet.The hose is movable within the faucet body. The faucet includes a faucetspray head being connected to the hose and movable between an extendedposition and a retracted position. When in the extended position, thespray head is spaced away from the outlet of the faucet body, and, whenin the retracted position, the spray head is positioned immediatelyadjacent the outlet. The faucet includes an alignment coupling thatincludes a first alignment element connected to the faucet body; and asecond alignment element connected to the faucet spray head. Thealignment coupling aligns the faucet spray head with the faucet body.The faucet includes a retention coupling that is configured to retainthe faucet body and the faucet spray head immediately adjacent oneanother. The retention coupling includes a first retention elementconnected to the faucet body, adjacent the first alignment element and asecond retention element positioned in the faucet spray head by, atleast partially, the second alignment element. At least one of the firstor second retention elements is a magnet.

In Example 62, the faucet of Example 61 is modified in that the secondalignment element is generally cylindrical and includes a first end anda second end, wherein the first end is configured to interface with thefirst alignment element and the second end is configured to be matedwith a portion of the faucet spray head, the second end having at leastone alignment stop configured to mate with a spray head alignment stopof the faucet spray head, wherein the at least one alignment stop andthe spray head alignment stop include at least one projection, andwherein the at least one alignment stop includes a spring-loaded tab anda rotational stop that are configured to reduce relative rotation in afirst direction and a second direction between the second alignmentelement and the faucet spray head.

In Example 63, a faucet includes a faucet body and a faucet spray headbeing positionable at, and separable from, an outlet of the faucet body.The faucet spray head has an aligned position with the faucet body. Thefaucet includes a retention coupling configured to retain the faucetbody and the faucet spray head immediately adjacent one another. Theretention coupling includes a first retention element connected to theoutlet of the faucet body. The first retention element includes asecuring feature configured to aid in reducing relative movement betweenthe first retention element and the outlet. The retention couplingincludes a second retention element positioned within the faucet sprayhead by way of a flange. When the faucet body and the faucet spray headare immediately adjacent one another, the flange is positioned betweenthe first retention element and the second retention element. At leastone of the first or second retention elements is a magnet.

In Example 64, the faucet of Example 63 is modified to further includean alignment coupling, the alignment coupling comprising: a firstalignment element connected to the faucet body and a second alignmentelement connected to the faucet spray head, wherein the alignmentcoupling includes a projection and a tapered groove, wherein at leastone of the projection or the tapered groove is movable with respect tothe other, and wherein the tapered groove guides the projection to anarrowed portion of the tapered groove to guide the faucet spray head tothe aligned position.

The various embodiments described above are provided by way ofillustration only and should not be construed to limit the claimsattached hereto. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize variousmodifications and changes that may be made without following the exampleembodiments and applications illustrated and described herein, andwithout departing from the true spirit and scope of the followingclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A faucet comprising: a faucet body; a faucetspray head being movable from a retracted position adjacent the faucetbody, and an extended position away from the faucet body, wherein in theretracted position the faucet spray head has at least one alignedposition with the faucet body; an alignment coupling including: a firstalignment element connected to the faucet body; and a second alignmentelement connected to the faucet spray head; wherein the alignmentcoupling includes a projection and a tapered groove, wherein at leastone of the projection or the tapered groove is movable with respect tothe other, and wherein the tapered groove guides the projection to anarrowed portion of the tapered groove to guide the faucet spray head tothe at least one aligned position; and a retention coupling configuredto retain the faucet body and the faucet spray head immediately adjacentone another, the retention coupling including: a first retention elementconnected to the faucet body; and a second retention element connectedto the faucet spray head; wherein the retention coupling is separatefrom the alignment coupling, and wherein at least one of the first orsecond retention elements is a magnet.
 2. The faucet of claim 1, whereinthe second alignment element at least partially secures the secondretention element in the faucet spray head.
 3. The faucet of claim 1,wherein the first retention element at least partially secures the firstalignment element in the faucet body.
 4. The faucet of claim 1, whereinthe second retention element in the faucet spray head is a magnet. 5.The faucet of claim 1, wherein the first alignment element includes aring and a tongue, the tongue extending in an axial direction from thering at least partially within the faucet body from an outlet of thefaucet body, wherein the ring includes the projection extending radiallyinward therefrom within the outlet of the faucet body, wherein thesecond alignment element is generally cylindrical, and wherein thetapered groove has walls that extend toward one another in a generallyaxial direction on an outer surface of the second alignment element toform a v-shaped groove.
 6. The faucet of claim 1, wherein the firstretention element is a stainless steel ring welded into the faucet body.7. The faucet of claim 1, wherein the magnet is a coated neodymiummagnet.
 8. The faucet of claim 7, wherein the magnet is held in place inthe faucet spray head by epoxy.
 9. The faucet of claim 7, wherein themagnet is positioned at least partially between the second alignmentelement and a bumper.
 10. The faucet of claim 1, wherein the magnet ispositioned at least partially within the faucet spray head between thesecond alignment element and a positioning ring.
 11. The faucet of claim10, wherein a bumper is positioned between the magnet and thepositioning ring.
 12. The faucet of claim 1, wherein the alignmentcoupling is coupled when the first and second alignment elements are incontact with each other, and wherein the alignment coupling is decoupledwhen the first and second alignment elements are not in contact witheach other, wherein when decoupled, the faucet spray head is spaced awayfrom an outlet of the faucet body.
 13. The faucet of claim 1, furthercomprising a water hose connected to the faucet spray head, wherein thesecond alignment element and second retention element are positionedaround the water hose.
 14. The faucet of claim 1, wherein the secondalignment element is generally cylindrical and includes a first end anda second end, wherein the first end is configured to interface with thefirst alignment element and the second end is configured to be matedwith a portion of the faucet spray head, the second end having at leastone alignment stop configured to mate with a spray head alignment stopof the faucet spray head to reduce rotation in a first direction betweenthe faucet spray head and the second alignment element, and wherein theat least one alignment stop and the spray head alignment stop include atleast one projection.
 15. The faucet of claim 14, wherein the at leastone alignment stop includes a spring-loaded tab that is configured tocontact the spray head alignment stop.
 16. The faucet of claim 15,wherein the at least one alignment stop includes a rotational stop,wherein the spring-loaded tab and the rotational stop are configured toreduce relative rotation in the first direction and a second directionbetween the second alignment element and the faucet spray head.
 17. Thefaucet of claim 1, wherein the faucet spray head has a plurality ofmisaligned positions with respect to the faucet body.
 18. The faucet ofclaim 1, wherein the first alignment element is positioned at leastpartially between an outlet of the faucet body and an apex of an arcuateneck of the faucet body.
 19. The faucet of claim 1, wherein the firstretention element is positioned adjacent an outlet of the faucet body.20. A faucet comprising: a faucet body having an outlet; a hosepositioned within the faucet body and passing through the outlet,wherein the hose is movable within the faucet body; a faucet spray headbeing connected to the hose and movable between an extended position anda retracted position, wherein, when in the extended position, the sprayhead is spaced away from the outlet of the faucet body, and wherein,when in the retracted position, the spray head is positioned immediatelyadjacent the outlet; an alignment coupling including: a first alignmentelement connected to the faucet body; and a second alignment elementconnected to the faucet spray head; wherein the alignment couplingaligns the faucet spray head with the faucet body; and a retentioncoupling configured to retain the faucet body and the faucet spray headimmediately adjacent one another, the retention coupling including: afirst retention element connected to the faucet body, adjacent the firstalignment element; and a second retention element positioned in thefaucet spray head by, at least partially, the second alignment element;wherein at least one of the first or second retention elements is amagnet.
 21. The faucet of claim 20, wherein the second alignment elementis generally cylindrical and includes a first end and a second end,wherein the first end is configured to interface with the firstalignment element and the second end is configured to be mated with aportion of the faucet spray head, the second end having at least onealignment stop configured to mate with a spray head alignment stop ofthe faucet spray head, wherein the at least one alignment stop and thespray head alignment stop include at least one projection, and whereinthe at least one alignment stop includes a spring-loaded tab and arotational stop that are configured to reduce relative rotation in afirst direction and a second direction between the second alignmentelement and the faucet spray head.
 22. A faucet comprising: a faucetbody; a faucet spray head being positionable at, and separable from, anoutlet of the faucet body, the faucet spray head having at least onealigned position with the faucet body; a retention coupling configuredto retain the faucet body and the faucet spray head immediately adjacentone another, the retention coupling including: a first retention elementconnected to the outlet of the faucet body, the first retention elementincluding a securing feature to aid in reducing relative movementbetween the first retention element and the outlet; and a secondretention element positioned within the faucet spray head by way of aflange, wherein, when the faucet body and the faucet spray head areimmediately adjacent one another, the flange is positioned between thefirst retention element and the second retention element; wherein atleast one of the first or second retention elements is a magnet.
 23. Thefaucet of claim 22, further comprising an alignment coupling, thealignment coupling comprising: a first alignment element connected tothe faucet body; and a second alignment element connected to the faucetspray head; wherein the alignment coupling includes a projection and atapered groove, wherein at least one of the projection or the taperedgroove is movable with respect to the other, and wherein the taperedgroove guides the projection to a narrowed portion of the tapered grooveto guide the faucet spray head to the at least one aligned position.